Eddy Mutwe Charged with Robbery Despite Signs of Severe Torture, Lawyer Claims
Masaka, Uganda — May 5, 2025 | Edward Sebuufu, also known as Eddy Mutwe, the personal bodyguard to opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), has been formally charged with robbery and aggravated robbery, despite widespread concerns over his deteriorating health and allegations of severe military torture.
Mutwe appeared before Grade One Magistrate Abudallah Kaiza at Masaka High Court after being forcibly abducted from Mukono District on April 27. Witnesses report he arrived in court limping and unable to walk unaided, supported by two individuals. Journalists were barred from the session, but his attorney, Magellan Kazibwe, relayed the details after being granted delayed access.
“These are the same robbery charges earlier brought against other NUP associates—Achleo Kivumbi, Wakabi, and Gaddafi—linked to an incident in Manja village, Lwengo District,” Kazibwe stated.
Shocking Torture Allegations
Kazibwe offered a disturbing account of what his client endured during his days in military detention.
“He was tortured daily—five times a day. They beat him with electrical wires, electrocuted him, and even squeezed his private parts,” the lawyer told reporters. “He hasn’t seen a doctor, hasn’t received any medication, hasn’t eaten properly, and has been denied contact with his family.”
Mutwe’s appearance, including a shaved head shown in a photo shared online by CDF Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, fueled further speculation of abuse. Muhoozi had joked that Mutwe was being held in his “basement” and forced to salute a picture of “Mzee”—a comment widely condemned as mocking the alleged detention.
Legal and Political Fallout
The charges and the conditions surrounding Mutwe’s arrest have sparked outrage among opposition supporters and human rights advocates. Critics argue this is part of a broader crackdown on dissent ahead of Uganda’s 2026 general elections.
Mutwe has previously been arrested on several occasions due to his association with Bobi Wine and the National Unity Platform (NUP). His latest detention adds to a growing list of incidents where opposition figures report illegal detention, torture, and denial of fair legal access.
As legal proceedings continue, Mutwe has been remanded to prison, raising urgent questions about his safety and whether justice will prevail amid deepening political tensions.
